Civil engineering decisions are made early, often quietly, yet they shape the trajectory of every solar project. In this episode, EVS Director of Civil Engineering Jeremy Schultz breaks down how site constraints, permitting realities, and stormwater design influence risk, cost, and constructability long before construction begins. From navigating inconsistent AHJ requirements to real-world lessons like landlocked basins and early layout tradeoffs, Jeremy shares where projects most often go wrong and how teams can think ahead to avoid it. If you want to understand what truly drives project success before the first pile is set, this conversation offers a grounded, field-tested perspective.

What happens when solar projects outgrow the workflows built to design them?

In this episode of Sounds of Solar, we talk with Clarke DeLisle, Product Development Lead at EVS, about how automation is reshaping utility scale solar engineering. Clarke shares what it looks like when traditional design workflows start to strain under growing project complexity, and how smarter tools can help engineers move faster without losing judgment or rigor. The conversation explores where automation genuinely adds value versus where hype can fall flat, how human expertise still anchors good design, and what skills will matter most as AI becomes part of everyday engineering work. Clarke also reflects on learning in fast-changing industries, taking smart risks, and building better ways of working from the inside out.

What really happens after you graduate with an engineering degree?

In this episode of Sounds of Solar, emerging engineers in electrical power studies, substations, and civil engineering share candid perspectives on their first years in the renewable energy industry. From imposter syndrome and steep learning curves to mentorship, asking questions, and finding purpose in their work, this conversation explores the realities of moving from classroom theory to real-world engineering. A thoughtful look at early careers, growth, and what it truly means to become an engineer in renewables.